European Adventure 2013

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Our first almost continually wet day of the holiday so we didn’t venture out much. A break in the clouds late morning resulted in us climbing the 420 steps of the Torre Guinigi, the tower that is part of the view from our apartment (see yesterday’s pics). On the way up there were lots of old paintings depicting the history of Lucca, including all the battles between noble families over the years. At the top there are holm oak trees that were planted hundreds of years ago. The views of the towers and other landmarks, rooftops and distant mountains were spectacular but I foolishly forgot to take my camera! I will need to return to capture those views.

After lunch the weather appeared to be improving so we set out to visit the beautiful Chiesa di San Michele in Foro that had been previously been closed each time we passed it. It contained a wooden crucifix made in Lucca dating back to the 12^th Century, some famous paintings and sculptures of the Madonna & Child. The composer Puccini was a chorister and organist in this church. Some of the other interesting sights we saw on our walk are depicted in today’s photos. There seems to be something fascinating around every corner of the city!

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Photos

Lucca
Detail on a door in Luuca

Lucca
12th Century Crucifix - San Michele in Foro

Lucca
Sculpture seen through a doorway

Lucca
Courtyard of one of the Lucca Palazzos accessible from the street

Lucca
Roman column in front of Chiesa di St Maria Forisportam (12th Century facade)

Lucca
Entrance to the Oro Botanico - closed when we arrived; will return when the weather clears!

Lucca
Porta San Gervasio